A NICU consultation is an important step where a member of the healthcare team, usually a doctor or an advanced practice provider, talks about your baby’s specific needs and how the team can best care for them. This might happen before your baby is born if there’s a known risk or after birth if your baby needs specialized care. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Introduction and Explanation: A neonatologist (a doctor who specializes in caring for newborns) or another member of the NICU team will meet with you. They should introduce themselves and explain why they are going to be involved, whether it’s because of a concern identified during pregnancy, complications during delivery, or unexpected health issues in your baby.
2. Discussion About Your Baby: They will go over your baby’s condition or potential risks. If this is before birth, they might discuss why your baby might need NICU care and what that care might involve. If your baby is already born, they’ll explain any findings, test results, and what they mean for your baby.
3. Care Plan: They will talk about the next steps. This could include treatments, monitoring, or procedures your baby might need. They will also share how there is a healthcare team who will work to provide the best care for your little one.
4. Support and Questions: This is your chance to ask any questions or share your concerns. No question is too small or unimportant. You want to make sure you feel informed and supported during a consultation.
5. Tour (if possible): If your baby is not yet born, they might offer a tour of the NICU so you can see where your baby will be cared for and meet some of the team members.

Throughout the consultation, the goal is to make sure you feel like an essential part of the care team. It can be an overwhelming time, but they are there to support you and your family every step of the way.